MANILA -- The House of Representatives will launch a probe into the fund management of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, as it eyes to recommend a one-year suspension of premium payments. 

House Speaker Martin Romualdez said the investigation will begin next year. 

“Next year, the House of Representatives will also conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into how PhilHealth’s funds are being managed,” he said during Wednesday’s plenary session. 

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“This investigation is not about blame. It’s about funding solutions. Our goal is clear: to ensure that every peso in PhilHealth’s coffers works for the benefit of the members," Romualdez added. 

The bicameral conference committee’s proposed 2025 budget, which was ratified by both houses of Congress, removed the government subsidy for PhilHealth, with lawmakers saying the state insurer has “more than enough” funds for at least two years.

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If the House investigation reveals that PhilHealth’s existing funds are being underutilized or are in excess of what is needed for current operations, it will recommend further expanding the benefits for members “until the vision of zero billing in all hospitals” is reached, further reducing premium contributions, and suspending premium payments for one year.

“If funds remain stable and in surplus, we will recommend a one year suspension of premium payments for all paying members,” Romualdez said.